Today, the BBC published this alarming article that anti-depressants are prescribed more and more in the UK. However, there is apparently a solution. And even better is the fact that the solution appears cheap, easy to implement and with no apparent drawback or counter-effect.
Yes, I am talking about “Ecotherapy”, usually described as getting outdoors and getting active in a green environment. This is already considered as an alternative in some European countries such as Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Austria, Belgium and Slovenia, where patients with depression are prescribed agricultural work.
Great news!!
I also liked the results of the Survey organised by Essex University, for which they found 71% people reported decreased levels of depression after a country walk compared with 45% after a shopping centre walk. I know now why when I go for a quick walk to the park next to the charity I worked for once a week with some clients, they usually feel better by the time we come back.